MEA says passport not proof of citizenship amid criticism from Sibal and Akhtar

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The Ministry of External Affairs stated that a passport is a travel document and not proof of citizenship, drawing sharp reactions from Kapil Sibal and Javed Akhtar.

The Ministry of External Affairs said on June 24, 2026, that a passport is a travel document and not proof of citizenship. The ministry also shared that it issued 1.39 crore passports in 2025.

Congress leader Kapil Sibal questioned what document then proves citizenship. He linked it to voting rights and said the matter should go to the Supreme Court.

Writer Javed Akhtar called the statement absurd. He asked whether the government issues the document without being fully convinced that the person is an Indian citizen.

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